DIRECTORY LISTING
Biography
Dr. Smith is an Assistant Professor in the Middle and High School Science Education Department at Lehman College, CUNY. She has a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and over 15 years of scientific research experience. Due to her deep abiding belief that proper education is key to unlocking the door of inequality, in 2012 Dr. Smith transitioned from a scientist into the field of education through the vehicle of Teach for America (TFA). As a TFA corps member Dr. Smith taught science in under-resourced public schools in Harlem and Brooklyn before joining the Middle and High School Education Department at Lehman College.
Currently at Lehman College Dr. Smith teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in the Science Education Department and the Biology Department. In 2015, Dr. Smith created an undergraduate course on the mind body connection to educate the students on the scientific pathways that link stress, thoughts and negative emotions to overall physical and mental health. During the course students also learn various mindfulness-based techniques to decrease stress and enhance well-being. Analysis of students’ end of semester reflection data revealed that learning about the mind body connection and practicing mindfulness reduced their levels of stress and improved their overall mental and physical health.
Dr. Smith is firmly committed to developing and implementing innovative quality professional development that supports teacher growth and enhances students learning.